NARA releases e-records guidance.

• Position: E-RECORDS

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In November, the National Archives, and Records Administration's NARA) new guidance on managing electronic records became effective. However, critics say the new rules may not go far enough in ensuring electronic information is protected because of the Archives' lax enforcement, nextgov.com reported.

The new regulations are meant to update 1980s rules on federal records management and include new terms and definitions that make e-records management clearer for agencies. They define e-records management in broader terms, making it clear that all requirements also apply to e-records.

The guidance also covers content created in new media formats, such as Twitter and Facebook, although they do not specifically refer to these new media types. NARA said it offers additional directions on handling such formats through its website and other guidance.

According to FCW.com, the new rules also:

* Change the conditions under which non-record materials can be taken from agencies by a departing employee

* Clarify how records should be kept when a contractor operates a program for an agency

* Require agencies to get NARA's permission before loaning original permanent or unscheduled records to other federal agencies

* Require agencies to notify NARA when records that could threaten health, life, or property are missing

* Address how NARA and agencies should handle credible allegations of unlawful or accidental removal, defacing, altering, or destroying records

* Change the regulations regarding NARA's inspections of agency management programs

Records management experts and government transparency advocates said the new guidance will not make a difference if NARA does not step up...